The Lincoln Police Department is increasing impaired driving enforcement throughout August as part of the nationwide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign. Officers will conduct overtime patrols during nights and weekends, when impaired driving is most common.
“The enforcement campaign is designed to identify and remove impaired drivers from Lincoln streets while promoting safe, responsible transportation choices,” says LPD Public Information Manager Erika Thomas. “Officers will be looking for drivers who are impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both.”
Thomas tells KLIN News residents should plan ahead if they expect to drink or use impairing substances. “We would like to remind residents that the consequences of impaired driving can be devastating and are entirely preventable,” Thomas says.
“Planning ahead can save lives, so we always encourage drivers, if you are planning on being impaired, to find another way home, whether it’s a rideshare, a designated driver, a taxi. There are numerous ways that you can stay off the roads and not be impaired behind the wheel.”
The overtime enforcement is funded through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office.